Spy Shots: Lexus GX, BMW 3-Series, GMC Sierra Heavy-Duty, Ford Edge CUV

SEMA News - January 2010

The images and information provided in “Spy Photos” are supplied by the spy shooters at Brenda Priddy & Co. “Spy Photos” are included each week in SEMA eNews, the association’s electronic newsletter. To receive your copy of SEMA eNews, e-mail enews@sema.org.

Lexus GX When it Hits: An official debut for the 2011 Lexus GX is expected later this year. What Priddy Says: Priddy’s spy photographers got a few quick shots of the 2011 luxury sport utility before engineers hustled the car cover back in place. Priddy said that details are scarce but that the GX will continue to share a body-on-frame chassis with the Toyota 4Runner. Power may come from the Tundra’s 4.6L, 300hp V8.

BMW 3-Series When it Hits: The next-generation BMW 3-Series is due in 2012. What Priddy Says: It appears that the typical 3-Series proportions—short rear overhang and aggressive stance—will remain. But the overall look is slimmer and more toned than the current 3. Priddy’s sources also tell her that the front of the car will receive a widened kidney grille (but smaller than the one on the current 5-Series), with classic L-shaped lighting units and typical BMW layout in back. The convertible will retain the current folding hardtop, which has proven to be the most successful 3-Series cabrio yet. The next 3 will also likely incorporate the latest in BMW’s Efficient Dynamics technologies. As with the 1-Series, there will be an active hybrid model using a range-extended three-cylinder engine connected to an electric motor as well as BMW’s active aerodynamics; a solar roof panel for energy efficiency in the use of interior controls; brake energy regeneration; and stop-start and pre-heating technology for the engine, gearbox and differential.

GMC Sierra Heavy-Duty When it Hits: The 2011 Sierra HD pickup is expected to start production in the second quarter of 2010. What Priddy Says: No major changes for GMC’s 2011 Sierra Heavy Duty, said Priddy, whose spy photo network grabbed these shots of a barely clad update. Priddy noted that the new three-bar perforated grille shares its styling with the 2010 GMC Terrain crossover. The eight-spoke wheels are also a new touch, but the rest of the bodywork and sheetmetal should continue looking like the current truck. The Sierra and its corporate twin, the Chevrolet Silverado HD, will also feature an all-new chassis and a next-generation 6.6L LML Duramax V8 clean-diesel engine.

Ford Edge CUV When it Hits: The 2011 Ford Edge is likely arriving mid-2010. What Priddy Says: Underneath the camouflage are two bars running across the grille, which looks more truck-like than on the current model. Priddy added that other sightings have shown a chrome ring running around the entire grille opening, with the whole assembly looking not unlike the Super Duty face. New projector headlights and a lower fascia resemble those on the 2010 Fusion Sport. In back, the Edge will get chrome-ringed taillights and possibly a new bumper. A large piece of camouflage draped over the entire dash suggested that the interior may also get a refresh. Priddy said that the Edge and its Lincoln MKX line mate will get the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that Ford recently announced. The automaker said that the boosted powerplant is good for 230 hp and 240 lb.-ft. of torque.